A chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Buba Galadima, has defended calls for a political alliance between the North and the South-East ahead of the 2027 general election, insisting that such cooperation has deep historical roots in Nigeria’s political development.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Wednesday, Galadima backed recent remarks by the NDC’s vice-presidential candidate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, who advocated closer political collaboration between the two regions.
Galadima said supporters of a proposed Peter Obi-Rabiu Kwankwaso ticket had been unfairly criticised by people who, according to him, lack a proper understanding of Nigeria’s political history.
He argued that alliances between northern and South-East leaders were instrumental in Nigeria’s journey to independence and the formation of the First Republic. He cited the partnership between the Northern People’s Congress (NPC), led by Sir Ahmadu Bello, and the National Council of Nigerian Citizens (NCNC), headed by Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, as an example of successful cross-regional cooperation.
According to him, leaders such as Ahmadu Bello, Kashim Ibrahim, Melford Okilo, and other prominent politicians worked together to secure Nigeria’s independence from colonial rule.
Following independence in 1960, Azikiwe became Nigeria’s first President and Commander-in-Chief, while Abubakar Tafawa Balewa of the NPC served as Prime Minister and Head of Government.
Galadima described the arrangement as a reflection of Nigeria’s unity in diversity, arguing that the democratic system was disrupted not by civilian politicians but by the military coup of 1966.
He maintained that civilian leaders of the First Republic should not be blamed for the collapse of the government, saying the military was responsible for truncating Nigeria’s democratic experiment.
The NDC chieftain also criticised what he described as ethnic attacks against supporters of an Obi-Kwankwaso alliance, noting that Peter Obi had previously served as the vice-presidential candidate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
He pointed out that Atiku had, at different times, selected Senator Ben Obi, Peter Obi, and Ifeanyi Okowa as running mates, while reports now suggest he may consider Rotimi Amaechi for 2027.
Galadima questioned why supporters of Atiku would criticise those advocating a Peter Obi candidacy, arguing that Obi’s political credentials had long been recognised within the opposition.
He urged opposition parties to focus on presenting a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) rather than engaging in internal divisions that could weaken their chances in the 2027 elections.
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